The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Split | Croatia Travel Blog

Sep 7, 2016

When I decided to venture out of Dubrovnik and embark on my first solo trip this summer, I knew immediately where I wanted to visit first: Split. An iconic city of the Dalmatian coast, it would be a dishonor to miss this historic hubs while visiting Croatia.

As an American with a Croatia travel blog, I’ve already explored Split a handful of times over the past years. So, although you may be able to find numerous guides to Split with a quick Pinterest search, I’m bringing you an exclusive insider’s perspective. Here’s everything you need to know about how to have an authentic travel experience in Split.

Click below to pin it!

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I receive a small percentage of any of the tours mentioned below. This helps me support myself and continue to provide free resources on my blog like this guide.

How to get to Split:

Split is located on the Southern point of Croatia’s coast, in between Zadar and Dubrovnik. As the second largest Croatian city next to the inland capital of Zagreb, Split has over 178 thousands inhabitants and covers a total of nearly 80 square kilometers. The rustic Old Town is decorated with preserved, historic monuments, while the urban outskirts of Split are rougher around the edges.

Split is extremely accessible by plane, boat, or bus, depending on where you are coming from. Split does have a small airport if you’re coming from an international destination. You can take a scenic ferry across the Adriatic if you’re coming from Italy or the Dubrovnik area. Otherwise, the cheapest and easiest option if you’re already in Croatia is to go by bus.

Hint: You can use Uber here! Actually a lot of people use it, and it is way cheaper than taking a cab. If you do end up taking a cab, many times they try to rip off tourists. If you’re going only a few kilometers, it should not be more than 70 kunas. Don’t let them charge you more!

Where to find accommodation in Split, Croatia:

Being as most of the attractions are centered into the Old Town, I would recommend staying close to the city center. Airbnb has incredibly cheap places, especially during the off-season months.

If you’re looking to stay somewhere a bit more upscale, I recommend Cornaro Hotel. I stayed here for a few nights while studying abroad, and the rooms are gorgeous. So is the all-inclusive breakfast :).

You can easily see the Old Town of Split in one day, but honestly you’ll probably feel rushed. I’d recommend at least a day or two to see Split’s major attractions. It really depends on if you want to take other day trips to neighboring attractions and islands.

Things to do in Split, Croatia:

Split’s Old Town is definitely doable within a day. Compared to Dubrovnik, I personally think that besides the Old Town, there’s not much else to do in the Split city center. However, Split is a great base for exploring various other neighboring islands and areas for day trips.

So get up early and put on your comfortable walking shoes.

Explore Diocletian’s Palace

These roman ruins are considered Split’s most well known attraction. Built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, this former palace dates back to the fourth century. And yes, segments of Game of Thrones were shot here as well.

The best time of day to explore these monuments is in morning, to avoid large crowds and heat, especially in the summer. Check out the underground market, selling many unique and local souvenirs.

Look over the city from the Bell Tower

This has to be my favorite tourist attraction in Split, which somehow many overlook. Here, you have a 360-degree view of the entire Split region. I recommend going early between 8-10 a.m. to avoid crowds. Be prepared for wind.

Walk along the Riva Promenade

Palm trees, coffee shops, and smoothie stands look out over Split’s harbor along the Riva Promenade. Arguably the best place for people watching or simply enjoying the view in solitude.

Wander through the colorful Old Town

Without a map or sense of direction, one can easily discover the top attractions within the Old Town. First, you’ll pass through narrow, colorful streets packed with cafes, clothing boutiques, and souvenir shops. Along the main promenade, you’ll find big names like Zara, Bershka, Guess, with the Croatian National Theatre behind. My favorite area is Republic Square, painted beautiful salmon and turquoise shades.

If you get up early enough, there is also a fish market off of the main promenade in Split’s Old Town. If you have an airbnb, I recommend making a stop here and taking a look at the fresh fish.

Hike to the top of Marjan

A 30-minute walk to the top of Marjan will reward you with perhaps the most scenic view over Split’s city center. You can rest and have a coffee while taking in the view, or if you’re the outdoorsy type, the entire park has beautiful trails. You’ll find many locals frequenting this area, often walking their dogs or running. Also, I found this solar charging station at the top. YAY to renewable energy!

Experience the Hajduk Cult(ure)

Last but not least, if you want a slice of authentic Split culture, you need to go to a football (soccer) game. Hajduk is the football team based in Split, which is obvious with the endless amounts of Hajduk swag and graffiti decorated throughout the city. In Split, Hajduk is not just a game; it’s almost a religion. It’s a cultural celebration of shared identity and pride.

The season runs August through May, and is truly one of the best ways to experience authentic Split culture. Be prepared for a rowdy and noisy crowd, though.

Day trips to take in Split

As I mentioned previously, I don’t think you need more than two days to explore the city center of Split. However, the city is a great base for exploring other areas throughout Croatia. Here are the top day trips near Split:

Krka National Park

Krka Waterfalls is one of the most popular national parks in Croatia, and unlike Plitvice, you can also swim in certain areas of Krka! The photo above was taken in the winter time, which was still just as gorgeous even though we couldn’t swim. It is a bit away from Split, however, so if you don’t have a car it would be best to take a day tour.

The Island of Korcula

Korcula is a popular day trip from Split or Dubrovnik, mainly because the island is about halfway in between both. You can easily take the public ferry there yourself or go with a guided privatetour. The island is actually quite big, so you won’t be able to see all of it on foot.

I would recommend taking the ferry over and renting bikes, going for a winery tour, or going kayaking while on the island. This way you’ll actually be able to see all of what the island has to offer, beyond Korcula town.

The islands of Hvar, Brac, Vis, or the Blue Cave

I hate to lump all of these equally incredible islands (and caves) into one, but the truth is I’ve actually never been to any of them in my 3 years living in Croatia (I’m working on it). Hvar is definitely one of the most popular islands not only in Split, but all of Croatia. It is known for it’s Stari Grad (Old Town), Lavender fields, spotless beaches, and frequent luxury travelers such as Jay-Z and Beyonce. Hvar is also known as a party island in Croatia.

Vis and Brac are popular islands that are much less crowded and have some of the best sandy beaches in Croatia. There’s also a few parties here during the summer as well. The Blue Cave is quite a bit north of Split, but there are tours that will take you there and stop at Vis and Brac.

Plitvice Lakes

Although this nature haven is closer to the inland capital of Zagreb, the Plitvice Lakes are a doable day trip from Split. The lakes and surrounding national park is significantly larger than Krka. While the later is closer to Split and has designated swimming areas, if I had to recommend one park over the other, it would be Plitvice Lakes without a doubt. It truly is one of the most remarkable natural wonders I’ve ever seen, and is a must-see in Croatia.

However, if you’re going from Split, you’ll need to take a trip with a designated tour group, especially if you don’t have a car. A lot of the guides are extremely knowledgable about the park, and will help guide you through the best parts of the park. Check out the highly-rated tour agency below.

Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina

If you’re looking to venture across the Croatian border to visit other areas of the Balkans, Mostar is a must. It is located the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina and only about 2 and a half hours from Split. The riverside town is full of Ottoman architecture, historic mosques, bazaar markets, and some of the best kebabs in the region.

Mostar is a particularly important site for those interested in the Balkan war. You’ll see “never forget 1993” written throughout the town, which is a reminder of when the Mostar was seized and destroyed during the war. Taking a tour of Mostar is one of the best ways to learn this history in detail and experience the region’s rich culture.

Best restaurants in Split:

There are many restaurants in Split that offer simple dishes of the Mediterranean diet, such as grilled fish with vegetables, squid, risotto, salads, and of course pizza, spaghetti and burec (a Balkan type of pastry). Within Split you’ll find many of these restaurants within the Old Town of Split. If you haven’t tried it already, I recommend having sea bass, sea bream, or squids, as these are usually locally caught in the Adriatic.

Smoothie Stands (breakfast)

Taking a walk down the promenade you’ll easily find several stands with fresh squeezes juices, smoothies and shakes. Many places you can create your own fresh blend with a kick of protein or caffeine.

Vegan? Gluten Free? Backpacker on a budget? Toto’s Burger Bar has it all, and for exceptionally cheap prices. I can’t rave enough about this place, and it is one of my favorite restaurants in all of Croatia.

Also check out this chic sushi restaurant in the Old Town as well if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale.

Best Split, Croatia nightlife:

Split sometimes has a wild, untamed energy about it, reflected in its nightlife. If you’re looking to have a few drinks and relax, I recommend La Bodega or Bar Gaga. If you want to experience Split’s nightlife to the fullest, I recommend Tropic Club or Vanilla Club. Split is overall safe, but don’t be the typical wasted tourists or you will be a target for theft (happened to some travelers I met), just like in any other European city.

Cultural note: Split has a unique attitude to it, different from other Croatian coastal cities. Based off my own experience, some people in Split can act standoffish and won’t always bend over backwards for tourists. Most Croatians will attest to this. Before you take it personally, just remember that’s simply a cultural norm here. However, it is a bit refreshing to have people be genuine instead of always forcing a smile to get tourists to take their business.

Overall, Split has an energy unmatched to any other Croatian town. From the Roman ruins towering over the Adriatic and ancient Old Town to graffiti decorating the urban outskirts, if only those narrow streets could tell stories.

15 Comments

I am heading to Venice and the Balkans and have been really enjoying your blog! This article was really inspiring as have all of your articles. Great write ups and great pictures. I live in Napa Valley, California and mostly traveling to visit wineries in Croatia and surrounding countries, but I’ve extended my trip to take in the sights that you’ve written about. Thanks for the ideas! You may enjoy our California wine country blog: http://www.topochinesvino.com. Follow us if you like what you see.

Thanks so much for reading, and I’m so glad my writing has inspired you! You should visit the Rozic winery if you are ever in the Dubrovnik Pleljesac area! It is run by my friend’s family and it’s truly the best wine in the region. Checking out your blog now! Thanks so much 🙂

I am so glad I subscribed to your blog! I am thinking of heading to Croatia sometime before heading back to Central America this year and its nice to read a bit about Split. Beautiful place- looks like a blast! 🙂

Thanks for the article, I am also interested in visiting Croatia. I have been having a hard time finding ferrys to Croatia. Was split a reasonably safe town for a solo traveler?Also is there a economical way to get to Albania? What language is spoken in split? Thank you.

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Welcome! I’m Alex, AKA the Mindful Mermaid! My blog is a curated collection of conscious travel guides, cultural commentaries, and stories of my life as an American living in Croatia. My mission is to inspire readers to be mindful of self, community, and the planet.